Councils launch Lights for Bikes campaign

As winter evenings grow darker, Dublin’s four local authorities have united to launch a major road safety campaign  “Lights for Bikes” encouraging cyclists across the region to use front and rear lights to stay visible and safe on the roads.

The campaign was launched today at Dublin City Hall bringing together the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, along with the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Pamela Kearns, the Mayor of Fingal County Council, Councillor Tom O’Leary, and An Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council,  Cllr Jim Gildea in a show of unity for road safety across the Greater Dublin Area.

Also supporting the campaign are the National Transport Authority (NTA), the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the Dublin Cycling Campaign, and the Emergency Services — including Dublin Fire Brigade and An Garda Síochána.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam said, “Cycling is an increasingly popular and sustainable way to get around our city. But as the days get shorter, being visible is vital. A simple set of lights can make all the difference in staying safe on the roads. I am delighted to join with my fellow Mayors across Dublin in supporting this important message.”

Mayor of South Dublin County Council Cllr Pamela Kearns said ‘‘I am delighted to be supporting this very important ‘Light Up Your Bike’ initiative with my fellow Dublin Mayors, reminding cyclists to make sure they have the correct lights on their bikes and to check them regularly. The use of bike lights helps increase your visibility to other road users and it is also the law. I am asking all Cyclists to be vigilant over this winter period, and remember, it only takes a split second to change someone’s life forever.

Road Safety Officer South Dublin County Council Orlaith Maguire said ‘ This is an extremely important road safety awareness campaign aimed at cyclists and e-scooters riders, reminding them that they are a Vulnerable Road Users and it is their responsibility to take measures to ensure that they make themselves visible to other road users, so this winter please ‘Be Safe , Be seen’.

Joe Seymour, Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport Development at the National Transport Authority, said, “As the evenings grow darker, using front and rear lights is essential for cyclists to stay visible and safe on the roads. The NTA is proud to once again support the ‘Lights for Bikes’ campaign, reminding everyone that a simple action—switching on your lights—can make a big difference in preventing collisions.”

The joint initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of using front and rear bike lights, particularly during the darker evenings and early mornings of the winter season. The simple act of turning on bike lights can greatly reduce the risk of collisions, ensuring cyclists remain visible to drivers, pedestrians, and other road users.

The “Lights for Bikes” will run throughout the winter months, amplified through social media and local authority channels, supported by visuals and awareness materials carrying the slogan: “Be Bright. Be Seen. Be Safe.”

The campaign reflects a united Dublin approach to road safety, reinforcing collaboration between local authorities, national agencies, and community partners to reduce road-related incidents and create safer streets for all.